Time flies, and before you know it, the year is almost over. If you have dental insurance, now is the time to make the most of it. Many dental insurance plans operate on a “use it or lose it” basis, meaning if you don’t utilize your benefits by the end of the year, you forfeit them. This can leave hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars wasted. Below are some easy tips to help you take full advantage of your dental insurance benefits before they disappear.
Understand the “Use It or Lose It” Policy
Most dental insurance plans work on an annual cycle. If you don’t use your benefits within the year, they won’t roll over. Instead, they vanish once January 1st arrives. This means that any funds left in your yearly maximum, which is the total amount your insurance will pay for your treatments within the year, will be lost. To avoid wasting these benefits, it’s essential to act now.
Why You Shouldn’t Wait Until the Last Minute?
Procrastination is common, especially when it comes to scheduling dental appointments. However, delaying until the final months can lead to:
- Crowded schedules: Many patients try to use their benefits toward the end of the year, which can make it hard to get an appointment.
- Limited treatment time: Some procedures require multiple visits, and waiting until December can mean running out of time.
- Missed opportunities for savings: Using your benefits early can reduce the cost of procedures since insurance can help cover a portion.
Tips for Making the Most of Your Dental Insurance
To avoid losing your benefits, consider these tips:
1. Schedule a Check-Up
Routine check-ups are one of the easiest ways to utilize your dental benefits. Most insurance plans cover two preventive visits per year, often without additional out-of-pocket costs. These visits typically include:
- A thorough cleaning.
- A dental exam.
- Necessary X-rays.
Taking advantage of these visits can help detect any problems early, potentially preventing more costly procedures down the road.
2. Complete Any Outstanding Treatments
If you’ve been delaying treatments due to time or financial concerns, this is the moment to act. Whether it’s a filling, a crown, or a deep cleaning, getting it done before year-end can save you money. It’s a great way to use the remaining balance of your annual maximum.
3. Consider Splitting Complex Treatments Across Two Years
For more extensive dental work, like crowns, root canals, or orthodontics, consider spreading the procedure across the end of this year and the beginning of the next. This can help you maximize benefits for two different insurance years, reducing out-of-pocket costs.
Maximize Preventive Care Benefits
Insurance companies prioritize preventive care because it helps avoid serious dental issues down the line. Most plans fully or mostly cover preventive care services, which typically include:
- Cleanings.
- X-rays.
- Fluoride treatments.
- Sealants.
Take advantage of these services, especially if you haven’t used them yet this year. They’re not only beneficial for your oral health but also help you get the most out of your insurance.
Don’t Forget About Deductibles
Each insurance plan has a deductible, which is the amount you pay out of pocket before your insurance kicks in. If you’ve already met your deductible this year, now is the perfect time to schedule any necessary treatments. You’ll save money since your insurance will cover a larger portion of the costs. Once January hits, you’ll likely need to meet that deductible all over again.
Make the Most of Your Yearly Maximum
Your yearly maximum is the total amount your dental insurance will pay within a year. Any amount left unused at the year’s end will not roll over. Here’s how you can use your yearly maximum to your advantage:
- Check your remaining balance: Contact your dental insurance provider or ask your dentist’s office to see how much of your maximum you have left.
- Plan treatments accordingly: If you still have funds available, now’s the time to address any needed procedures.
- Prioritize necessary care: Use your remaining benefits for important treatments rather than cosmetic procedures that might not be fully covered.
Keep Track of Your Insurance Benefits
Many patients miss out on benefits simply because they forget what their insurance covers. To avoid this, follow these steps:
- Review your benefits summary: It’s a good idea to understand what’s covered each year. Know the details of your annual maximum and what preventive services are included.
- Ask your dentist’s office: Most dental offices are happy to help you navigate your insurance benefits. They can provide an estimate of what treatments will cost and what portion your insurance will cover.
Act Now to Avoid Wasting Your Benefits
If you haven’t scheduled a dental appointment yet, don’t wait. The year-end rush can make it challenging to find an available slot, and you don’t want to be left with unused benefits. Remember, dental insurance is there to help you maintain a healthy smile, but only if you use it.
Schedule an appointment with Floss Dental today and make the most of your insurance before the year ends. Whether you need a check-up, a cleaning, or a more complex procedure, our team is here to help.
